Great News!

The final pathology report came back and Bruce is cancer free at the tumor sites and in all 21 lymph nodes that were removed for analysis!  This means that his ileostomy can be reversed in a few months if everything continues on course.  It was a busy day: NG tube removed, physical therapy to improve his breathing, full laps around the floor, and ileostomy care training for me.  Bruce's mom came to visit so I took an hour walk in the evening and did that feel good!  It was also comforting to have someone to come home with to decompress.  Bruce is feeling better than yesterday but he has lost his voice due to the irritation from the NG and intubation tubes.  As he cannot speak and is usually only awake for about 5 minutes, he is still not quite ready for visitors or phone calls but we are still taking all the prayers and positive thoughts that come our way. Our Physician neighbors (David & Klane) who have been in to see him say that he is progressing well and anticipate a (relatively) speedy recovery.  Bruce's surgeon, Dr. Teddy, is very pleased with the surgery and pathology reports.  Hopefully, tomorrow will see more progress in his healing, pain reduction, and beginning of elimination functions.  Love, Cynthia